The National Energy Management Institute (NEMI) has named Cassandra Kline as director of certification for the organization.

A second-generation sheet metal worker and Ohio native, Kline graduated the apprenticeship through the International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation (SMART) workers Local 33 in Toledo, Ohio, in 2020 and became a part-time instructor shortly after.

During her apprenticeship, Kline worked with VM Systems Inc. and gained experience in testing, adjusting and balancing (TAB), architectural, commercial and heavy industrial applications of sheet metal work. She later hired on with Gem Inc. as a field supervisor for the TAB division and was soon promoted to service manager.

Kline was first hired by NEMI in late 2022 as the director of building construction technology, working with 150 local unions in the United States and Canada in order to promote new business ideas and technology in the unionized sheet metal industry. In her current role, Kline oversees all aspects of the certification process within the organization, which includes development and implementation of policies and procedures related to certification eligibility, examination administration, and certification renewal for technicians, supervisors, and contractors. Ensuring that the certification program adheres to ANAB (ANSI National Accreditation Board) accreditation standards.

NEMI is a not-for-profit organization jointly managed by SMART and the Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors’ National Association (SMACNA). NEMI works with public, private and government organizations as well as companies nationwide to make buildings safer and healthier while improving energy efficiency. NEMI’s Testing and Balancing Bureau (TABB) program certification is gained through the International Certification Board (ICB), which is the platform for industry-recognized certifications, and meets some of the highest standards for technical excellence and expertise.

NEMI creates training and certification opportunities so consumers know these workers — who ensure fire life safety systems are inspected, verify the indoor air quality in schools and make sure the heating and air conditioning systems in office buildings are energy efficient — are at the top of their industry and experts in their field. NEMI works with state and federal officials as subject matter experts to make sure legislation, implementation and safety align.